Sea Link undersea power cable between Suffolk and Kent receives government approval

The government has granted development consent for the Sea Link project, a major undersea power cable connecting Suffolk and Kent. Baroness Curran issued the approval on behalf of the Energy Secretary following an examination process that considered evidence from local communities and statutory consultees.

This infrastructure development aims to strengthen Britain's energy grid by moving electricity from generation sites to where it is needed. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the project intends to make the national network more resilient and help lower costs for consumers over the long term.

What the project involves

Sea Link will primarily run offshore to transport electricity between the two counties. The project also includes constructing a new converter station near the proposed Friston substation, linked by underground high-voltage cables. National Grid submitted the original application in early 2025, leading to a six-month examination period where local views were gathered.

The project is expected to decrease the need for payments made to generators to switch off when the grid cannot handle their output. By modernising this infrastructure, the government aims to reduce wasted energy and improve the flow of homegrown renewable power across the country.

Community benefits

As part of the government’s community benefits scheme, National Grid will provide funding for local initiatives in Kent and Suffolk. There will be over £1 million allocated to each area to support local priorities. Potential uses for these funds include improving community facilities, developing local skills and enhancing green spaces.